Tuesday, May 22, 2007

Encouraging students directly elicits success

At Advanced Academics we offer our students the opportunity to learn new material without the pressure of a high school classroom. As a Spanish instructor I like being able to provide one on one interaction with my students through our Instant Help chat and ClassMail systems. Many students are less intimidated to talk directly to the teacher when they know others aren’t listening.

In our Spanish courses, students learn language skills through the four areas of communication: reading, speaking, listening and writing.

Our courses are rich with cultural exposure, including photos, maps, history and interactive and fun games. While sticking to the standards, our Spanish courses offer the students background knowledge on Aztec, Incan and Mayan cultures, as well as origins of many English words. I always enjoy reading some of the surprise my students show in their essays about what they’ve learned from these units.

When students call me to take their oral vocabulary quiz, it’s a great opportunity for me to give them feedback on what they’ve been learning. Our Spanish courses have many graphical and audio activities from which the students gain a valuable and practical Spanish vocabulary.

Students are introduced immediately to the grammar composition of the language, and realize quickly the importance of punctuation. Since our program grades some assignments automatically, students are encouraged to take time in their writing assignments. It’s amazing to see the progress of my students’ language skills when I read their Spanish compositions near the end of their course. More than anything, I feel rewarded when a student’s attitude is lifted by a few words of encouragement.

Teachers how are you able to encourage your students? If you are currently a student, how have your teachers encouraged you?


Posted By:
Justin Moore
Spanish/Arts Instructor
Advanced Academics, Inc.

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